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Aggressive. Experienced.
Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney Former Cook County Felony Prosecutor
Stalking
Charged with Stalking in Chicago? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend Your Rights
Stalking is a serious criminal offense in Illinois, with potentially severe consequences that include imprisonment, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing charges of stalking in Chicago, it is crucial to have an experienced and aggressive defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg on your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Understanding Stalking in Illinois
Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/12-7.3, stalking occurs when an individual knowingly engages in conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety or the safety of others, or suffer emotional distress. Stalking is a broad charge that can encompass various behaviors, including following someone, making repeated unwanted contact, or sending threatening messages.
Key elements of this crime include:
Course of Conduct: Stalking generally involves a pattern of behavior or repeated actions rather than a single incident. This may include following the victim, showing up at their home or workplace, making threatening phone calls, or sending unsolicited communications.
Intent: The prosecution must prove that the defendant knowingly engaged in this conduct with the intent to cause fear, harm, or emotional distress to the victim.
Impact on the Victim: The victim must experience reasonable fear for their safety or suffer emotional distress as a result of the defendant’s actions.
Stalking is treated as a serious crime in Illinois, and convictions can lead to life-altering penalties.
Penalties for Stalking in Chicago
The penalties for stalking in Illinois can be severe, especially if the behavior is part of a pattern of harassment or involves aggravating factors:
Class 4 Felony: Stalking is typically charged as a Class 4 felony, which carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 3 years and fines of up to $25,000.
Class 3 Felony: If the stalking involves a violation of an existing court order, such as a restraining order, or if the defendant has prior stalking convictions, the charge can be elevated to a Class 3 felony, with penalties including 2 to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.
Aggravated Stalking: If the stalking involves the use of a weapon, physical harm to the victim, or confinement, the charge can be elevated to aggravated stalking, a Class 3 felony or higher, with even harsher penalties.
Order of Protection: Courts may issue an order of protection requiring the defendant to stay away from the victim and cease all contact. Violating this order can result in additional criminal charges.
Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for stalking will result in a permanent criminal record, which can severely impact your ability to secure employment, housing, and other opportunities in the future.
Given these penalties, it is essential to have a skilled and experienced defense attorney who can challenge the prosecution’s case and work to protect your future.
Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Defense Attorney?
Andrew M. Weisberg is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling cases involving charges of stalking. His background as a former Cook County prosecutor gives him unique insights into how these cases are built and prosecuted, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and develop a robust defense on your behalf.
When you choose Andrew as your defense attorney, you benefit from:
Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: Andrew’s thorough understanding of Illinois stalking laws ensures that your case will be handled with the utmost competence and care.
Aggressive Defense Strategies: Andrew is known for his relentless and proactive defense tactics, exploring every possible angle to protect your rights.
Personalized Attention: Andrew provides each client with individualized attention, ensuring that your specific circumstances and needs are fully addressed.
Defending Against Charges of Stalking in Chicago
Successfully defending against charges of stalking requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. Andrew M. Weisberg will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, scrutinizing every piece of evidence and questioning the validity of the prosecution’s claims. Some potential defense strategies may include:
Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove that you knowingly engaged in conduct intended to cause fear or distress. If your actions were not intended to cause harm or were misinterpreted, this could be a significant defense.
Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly identified as the person responsible for the stalking, Andrew will work to uncover evidence that points to your innocence.
Challenging the Evidence: Andrew will carefully examine the evidence against you, including any communications or interactions with the alleged victim, to determine whether the prosecution’s case is based on solid proof or mere assumptions.
Violation of Constitutional Rights: If your rights were violated during the investigation, arrest, or interrogation—such as through unlawful search, seizure, or coercion—Andrew may be able to have key evidence suppressed, weakening the prosecution’s case.
Andrew will work tirelessly to build a strong defense, aiming to reduce the charges, negotiate a favorable plea, or secure an acquittal.
The Importance of Early Legal Intervention
If you have been charged with stalking, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Andrew M. Weisberg will take immediate action to protect your rights, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Andrew M. Weisberg: Committed to Your Defense
Facing charges of stalking can be overwhelming and stressful. Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation throughout the entire process. He will keep you informed at every stage, answer all your questions, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.
Contact the Law Offices of Andrew M. Weisberg Today
If you have been arrested or charged with stalking in Chicago, don’t delay in seeking legal representation. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to discuss your case and provide the immediate assistance you need.
Contact Andrew today for a free, confidential consultation:
Phone: Call (773) 908-9811 anytime, day or night.
Online: Fill out the Case Review form on our website, and we will get back to you promptly.
Remember, the sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Let Andrew M. Weisberg put his expertise to work for you.
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